Pop phenomenon Olivia Rodrigo has launched a fierce defence of Jimmy Kimmel Live! writer Sarah Squirm, breaking her silence on the co-producer's controversial suspension from the show. The Good 4 U singer publicly condemned the network's decision, labelling it a clear act of censorship and an abuse of power.
The controversy ignited after Squirm, whose real name is Sarah Sherman, posted a series of behind-the-scenes photographs from the show's writers' room on her Instagram. The images, deemed innocuous by many, reportedly led to her being temporarily barred from the studio lot by Disney-owned ABC.
A Public Stand Against Corporate Power
Rodrigo, who had recently performed on the show, did not hold back in her criticism. Taking to her Instagram Stories, she shared Squirm's original post and added a powerful message of support. "This is so appalling," she wrote. "The censorship and abuse of power here is outrageous. Solidarity with Sarah!!!"
Her intervention catapulted the industry dispute into the international spotlight, sparking a fervent debate about creative freedom and corporate control within late-night television.
The Images That Caused a Storm
The photographs in question showed Squirm and fellow writers posing playfully in their office. One image featured a colleague pretending to lick an Emmy award statue, while another showed a writer holding a pair of prop handcuffs. A third simply depicted the team smiling for a group selfie.
Despite the seemingly harmless nature of the posts, ABC executives allegedly interpreted them as a breach of confidentiality, leading to Squirm's suspension and a temporary ban from the Burbank, California lot.
Industry Backlash and Widespread Support
Rodrigo was not alone in her outrage. Squirm's suspension triggered a wave of support from high-profile comedians and writers. Fellow Saturday Night Live star Bowen Yang commented on her post with a simple "This is insane," while comedian Patti Harrison expressed her fury more explicitly.
The incident has thrown a harsh light on the working conditions and creative constraints faced by writers, even on shows known for their edgy humour. As the story develops, all eyes are on ABC and Jimmy Kimmel to see how they will respond to the mounting pressure and accusations of heavy-handed censorship.
